What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, often referred to as “caps,” are custom-fitted tooth prosthetics that cover a damaged or decayed tooth. They can improve the tooth’s appearance while also restoring its shape, size, and strength.
Crowns serve a variety of purposes, ranging from preventing a weak tooth from breaking to fixing one that is already broken. They can also cover teeth that are severely discoloured or misshapen and are a final step to dental implant treatment.
In addition to restoring aesthetic appeal, dental crowns also improve the functionality of the affected teeth. Crowns allow you to chew more efficiently, potentially improving your digestive health. They help prevent your teeth from further decay, damage, and loss, saving you from more invasive dental procedures in the future.
Types of Dental Crowns
- Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns are suitable for restorations of the front teeth due to their ability to match the natural colour. They are exceedingly aesthetically pleasing, but when placed on back teeth, they can be less durable than other crowns.
- Ceramic Crowns: Ceramic crowns, like porcelain crowns, have a natural appearance and are safe for individuals who are allergic to metal. They are durable and dentists can use them for both front and back teeth.
- Metal Crowns (Gold, Silver): These crowns are incredibly sturdy and can endure biting and chewing forces. This makes them an excellent option for back teeth. However, for visible teeth, their metallic hue is a significant drawback.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal Crowns: These crowns, with a porcelain exterior and a metal interior, provide a balance of strength and aesthetics. They have a more natural appearance than metal crowns but sometimes show a metal line at the gum.
Factors Affecting Dental Crown Cost
Several factors affect the cost of dental crowns, including:
- Type of Crown Material Used: Metal crowns are often less expensive than porcelain or ceramic crowns because of the materials and craftsmanship required.
- Geographic Location and Cost of Living: Dental care costs vary substantially by region. Dental treatment is more expensive in areas with a higher cost of living.
- Number of Crowns Needed: Multiple crowns will raise the total cost of your dental procedure.
- Dentist or Specialist Fees: Specialists like prosthodontists may charge more than general dentists due to their additional training and expertise.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The cost of dental crowns varies considerably based on the type of crown and where you live. In Thornhill, Ontario, the price for a single crown can range from $800 to $3,000. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are more expensive due to their aesthetic qualities and technical needs to match your natural teeth.
Metal crowns, while more durable and less costly, may not be the first choice for people concerned about the appearance of their smile. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are a popular choice due to their affordability and aesthetic appeal.
Although these costs may be considerably more significant in comparison to other dental procedures, they are a worthwhile investment in both one’s oral health and self-assurance.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Crowns Cost?
Dental insurance typically covers a portion of the cost of dental crowns, especially if the crown is medically necessary and not purely cosmetic. Policies vary widely, and there may be exclusions and limitations. For example, some insurance plans have a maximum annual coverage limit, which may impact how much of the crown’s cost is covered. It is critical to speak with your insurance provider to understand your coverage correctly.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Crowns?
Ideal candidates for dental crowns include individuals with significantly damaged teeth, those who have had root canal treatment, or those with severely discoloured or misshapen teeth. Prior to recommending crowns, a dentist must conduct a thorough examination to assess the condition of your teeth and gums. This examination helps to guarantee that dental crowns are the best option for your oral needs.
Patients with concerns about the procedure, costs, or the appearance of crowns should discuss these openly with their dentist. A thorough consultation can help address these issues, ensuring that patients are at ease and confident in their treatment options.
FAQs on Dental Crowns
How Long Does a Tooth Crown Last?
Dental crowns typically last between 5 to 15 years, depending on the material, oral hygiene, and wear and tear.
What Are the Disadvantages of Dental Crowns?
Disadvantages include the potential for tooth sensitivity, the risk of crown chipping or loosening, and the need for replacement over time.
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
The procedure for placing a dental crown is not painful, thanks to local anesthesia. Some post-procedure sensitivity is normal but temporary.
Finally, dental crowns are a versatile and successful alternative for restoring damaged teeth, with a variety of options to meet individual needs and preferences. At SkyRise Dental in Thornhill, Ontario, we recognize the significance of both the health and look of your smile. Our team is here to provide personalized care, from choosing the best type of crown to managing insurance coverage and keeping you informed about all aspects of your treatment.
